31.

Oh the beauty of growing up. I enjoy it more than I thought possible. Something so liberating about it and something so sanctifying and humbling about knowing you know just a little less than you thought you should at "such and such age."

Yesterday I became 31.  We are also 31 weeks along.

My parents hosted a small group of friends last night, most of whom I have lived with.  I can't tell you the blessings that have come from these women (and many, many more).  They are those people that see me as God sees me and love me such.  I even got the most beautiful flowers from lovely, Britney (if you need a wedding planner, she is your gal).

Husband told me the men were literally talking about super-heros and watching youtube videos of men flying...I love men being men.

Oh, and my girlfriends got me the high-gloss black Hunter boots!!!!  If any of you know me, you know that I only buy MAX one pair of shoes a year (not my thing).  So this is a huge blessing!!!! And the little cable socks to go in them and a pedicure!  In case you are wondering...it is now very hard to reach my toes-and for that matter, even see them.

And the friends and parents blessed me with amazing clothes (to fit the ever expanding "not-so-wee" one), a new purse, balloons, jewelry (some handcrafted) and...the most amazing popcorn maker!  Sorry, husband...it is just sooooo cute!  

Comfy. Super-comfy.

Cable knit-socks-over boots= Lovely.

See what I mean?

Off to the beach for an evening away with the handsome man I call my fantastic husband.

I hope you all are doing swell this time of year!

xoxo, Anna N

"What Men Really Want"

I found this through some meandering through www.goodwomenproject.com and "wow."  ALL should read what this guy writes about. I am always telling my girlfriends to wait and then men desire so much more than we think (meaning past sex, lust, "hotness", etc. ).  

Please, please, please go this link and encourage all men you know that the true desires of their heart are real. That there is a God who created man in His image for His glory and for insane beauty-beauty that is comprehended when God is taken for who He is and we saw ourselves in His reflection.

I recently had a conversation with a lovely lady who said she went on a date with a guy who was rather "physical."  She said she wasn't that type and didn't want that to be central to a relationship and that she desired more. He teared up.  I believe his soul knew that he wanted more but his flesh told him it wasn't worth waiting for...

I know seeing myself in His eyes changed my life.  I am often asked why I tell people to have higher standards (not mulah, friends, I am talking about character) and this alone is the reason.  I know who I was created to be and I feel ALL have that desire within them that they were created for something so much more.

"What Men Really Want"